Private Sugarcane & Rum Tasting Tour in Madeira

The beautiful island of Madeira is well-known for its fortified wine, but did you know that rum is also produced here from the island’s abundance of sugarcane? On this full day tour, you will learn about the many uses of Madeira’s sugarcane in syrup, sweet treats and rum, with plenty of samples along the way.   

Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide your tour begins with a visit to the island’s most well-known sugarcane syrup factory: Ribeiro Sêco. The factory has been producing sugarcane syrup since the late 1800’s. A 100% natural product, sugarcane syrup is the perfect substitute for sugar. Besides being present in traditional Madeira sweets, it is used by the islanders when cooking meat and fish, and also for medicinal purposes.

After learning about sugarcane syrup, continue to the capital city of Funchal city where a stop will be made at Dona Maria José. This local store is famous for its traditional cake and confectionary production, and you will have the opportunity to sample their delicious Honey Cake which is made from local sugar cane, alongside traditional biscuits and Madeira wine. 

Enjoy a regional lunch at Taberna da Madeira, which will be accompanied with local beer, passion fruit soft drink or Portuguese table wine.

In the afternoon drive to Engenhos do Norte at Porto da Cruz for a Rum Masterclass. Built in 1927, the Engenho of Porto da Cruz is one of three historic ‘engenhos’ operating in Madeira. Your masterclass includes the tutored tasting of seven different types of local rum accompanied with sugarcane syrup biscuits. 

Then return to your hotel.